Log homes generally require more maintenance than people initially take time to consider. Over time, logs may shift and expand. However, some issues caused by this can be addressed during the construction process, so make sure you hire a reputable and experienced builder. Other concerns to consider when working with logs are pests (most commonly carpenter bees and
termites) and decay, as damage done to your home by these is not covered by insurance. Log home maintenance guides can be helpful for identifying problems and learning ways to treat logs to prevent future damage. While log home kits can be convenient, they may also present challenges. Pieces included in kits are designed to fit perfectly together for a pre-designed plan, leaving little room for creative changes along the way. Not all kits are created equal;
some provide only the logs and timbers while others include interior walls etc., so know what’s included in the package. If you decide to use a kit, make sure that the design is definitely what you want. Log and timber homes are insured differently than conventional houses. Most big-name insurance companies like State Farm, Met Life, USAA and others do provide coverage. Choose an agent familiar with insuring log homes. There are three
common methods for constructing a log home. Many consider the easiest as working with a manufacturer to cut the logs and a builder to construct the house, which is what people who work with the Log Homes Council do. Another method is to act as your own general contractor and individually hire people to do the work. This gives you more independence but can also be difficult if you are unfamiliar with the construction business. A third option is to be your own builder, doing most of the labor
yourself. Your own construction skills and budget will be the main factors in determining how your home is built. Talking with someone who has gone through the process of building a log home is also helpful. While mortgage rates and land costs are down, loan qualifications are tougher, requiring a higher credit score than in the past. Construction loans have different requirements than conventional loans, so do your research. Your credit score also affects the amount of
interest you pay. Finished log homes can range from $125 to $400 per square foot. This wide range is due to a variety of choices to be made about the construction of your home. Finishing touches such as sinks and faucets have a vast price range that will affect the total cost of your home. According to a recent report from Nation’s Building News, 60 percent of total building costs is spent on labor. Ask if you can do minor work for your builder, such as staining logs or cleaning up work sites –
to lower building costs. Keep in mind that any changes you make to your home after establishing a budget will affect the overall cost. Consult with your builder and weigh the pros and cons before making any significant changes.
Timber Frame Log Homes: Advantages and DisadvantagesOnce you’ve decided to build a custom home, there are a number of choices that you need to make. While finding the best custom home builder should be a priority, it’s just as important to know what type of home you would like to build. These days, timber frame log homes are one of the most popular styles being built. A timber frame log home is very similar to a post and beam home in that you can have the beauty of wood and timber features without building the entire home out of logs, and instead have them being used as just the main structural supports for your home. The big difference between post and beam and timber frame is that post and beam logs are round with a more natural and rustic feel, while timber frame logs are square. 3 Benefits of Timber Frame Log Homes:#1 Open Concept and Strength Over the last ten years, the open concept home has been growing in popularity, with expansive kitchens that overlook common living areas throughout the home. The strength of the timbers in a timber frame home allows for less load bearing walls, naturally creating an open floor plan free of obstructions. This type of framing has been used for centuries, especially in older churches, because of its strength and durability as well as its beauty. #2 Waste and Sustainability There is generally less waste in using the entire log in a timber frame home than using dimensional lumber for framing a traditional home. With conventional homes, the lumber is cut in the forest, hauled to a mill, cut to size, shipped to a distributor then to a local building supply store, and, once on the job site, will be cut again. Wood used for timber frame homes goes through much less handling, which means lower costs. Once at the site, the logs are fit to size, then some adjustments are made with minimal waste. #3 Aesthetics With a custom built log home you have the option of having your framing logs visible on the outer or the inner walls of your home. The sheer beauty and strength in being surrounded by perfectly placed timbers gives a sense of safety and comfort, while adding character and a design that is unique to every custom timber frame home. Additionally, there is more choice in where to place windows and doors with less load bearing walls and an open concept. Some other benefits of timber frame log homes
3 Disadvantages of Timber Frame Log HomeAs with any type of construction, there are of course going to be disadvantages to building a timber frame home: #1 Vulnerability to Pests Just like any home timber frames are susceptible to attacks from termites, woodworms and carpenter ants. Properly cleaning and caring for your home will help you avoid any longterm damage and repairs. #2 Vulnerability to Forces of Nature Timber frame log homes can become damaged from to the elements, such as the sun, fire and/or water, making it vulnerable to decay or fire damage. To avoid this you want to ensure that any timber on the exterior of your house has proper overhangs to help protect the wood. It’s also important to ensure any snow, water drainage, shrubs and trees are not close to your home. By doing a quick walk around your log home every spring and fall to inspect and look for any potential problem areas you can find them in time, repair them and avoid any longterm damage. #3 Shrinking or Swelling of the Wood As wood can naturally absorb water, if your timber frame log home is not sealed or finished properly, it can swell, shrink or shift with the changes in water absorption throughout your home. Working with a professional log and timber builder will help you ensure that the builders are taking into consideration that the logs may shrink, twist or shift and can ensure proper precautions are in place to ensure it does not effective the structure of your home. Overall… If you are considering building a custom log home but want to get away from the traditional full scribe log home, a timber frame may be a great option. Check out our Timber Frame Designs and Plans to give you some different ideas and concepts. Don’t be afraid to mix, match and integrate your own personal tastes as well, and if you have any additional questions feel free to contact us. What are the pros and cons of owning a log home?Owning A Log Cabin: 3 Pros And Cons. Pro #1: Energy-Efficient. ... . Pro #2: Environmentally-Friendly. ... . Pro #3: Much Needed Comfort And Relaxation. ... . Con #1: Maintenance-Prone. ... . Con #2: Little To No Insurance Coverage. ... . Con #3: Prone To Pests. ... . Conclusion.. Are log homes difficult to maintain?So to answer the question directly: Are Log Homes Hard To Maintain? – Not particularly. There will be some different things to look for, and different people to call for some fixes, but by and large, no, a log cabin construction shouldn't be a deal breaker on any good home.
Are log homes worth it?Longtime homeowners say log and timber homes offer rich rewards over the stick and brick homes of their neighbors. The benefits start with the building materials. Because trees are a renewable resource, log and timber homes come with a solid green pedigree.
Are log homes warm in winter?No, it's not your imagination— log homes are warmer than traditional “stick-built” homes and there's some science behind this concept. Insulation is a substance that slows or limits the transfer of heat over time.
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What are the disadvantages of a log home
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